The spring of 2020 has been an odd one so far. Many of us are practicing social distancing as recommended by the CDC, which means we’ve had to give up some of the activities we usually enjoy. The great sandhill crane migration that takes place in March and April is one that many skipped this year. If you missed your crane-viewing trip in the spring of 2020, don’t worry – you can still catch a view of the spectacle.

Each spring and fall, an awe-inspiring event takes place: hundreds of thousands of sandhill cranes make a stopover on the Platte River in Nebraska in the middle of their migration.
Getty Images/Michael Melford/Photodisc
Every year, people flock to south-central Nebraska to watch the majestic birds in nature. The Rowe Sanctuary near Gibbon is one of the most popular places to watch the cranes. The sanctuary even offers guided excursions that let visitors observe the cranes from an excellent vantage point.
Getty Images/Diana Robinson Photography/Moment Open

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Unfortunately, the 2020 migration was interrupted - for humans, anyway - by the need to stay home in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic. But there's an alternative that will let you see the cranes without ever leaving home.
Getty Images/Diana Robinson Photography/Moment Open
The Rowe Sanctuary's Crane Cam gives a live view of the cranes roosting in the Platte River. Relax in your warm home while you observe the graceful birds. You have the best chance of seeing them if you watch near sunrise or sunset since the cranes fly off to feed during the day.
Getty Images/Visions of America/UIG
It may not be quite as good as being there in person, but the Crane Cam is a great distraction at a time that we all need it. And you can even watch the cam after the migration is over. You won't see cranes, but you'll have a nice view of the Platte, and you may see some of the other area wildlife.
Getty Images/Diana Robinson Photography/Moment

Watch the live feed of the cranes below - and be sure to turn your speakers on so you can hear the birds' distinctive call.

Bookmark this Rowe Sanctuary link for direct access to the Crane Cam whenever you like.

What do you think? Will you be tuning in to watch the tail end of the migration this spring?

If you know of a business that’s making the most of the coronavirus pandemic, or if there are any other Nebraska events happening on a live stream, let us know with this nomination form.

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